As we enjoy the final days of summer, I’m excited to share information about infrastructure updates and upcoming events at Channel Islands Harbor.

Summer Concerts by the Sea

Our summer Concerts by the Sea series this year has been incredibly popular, and we’re thrilled to announce the last concert of the season. Join us from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday, August 31^st at Harbor View Park for a special performance by South Pasadena Transit Authority, a dynamic nine-member band renowned for their renditions of Chicago’s greatest hits. It’s set to be an afternoon of high-energy music and great vibes – the perfect way to cap off our summer series.

Car Shows

For automobile enthusiasts, we have two exciting car shows left in 2024. First up is the Central Coast British Car Club Show, taking place from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, September 22^nd. This event will showcase an array of British classics. On Sunday, October 13^th, don’t miss the Ponies by the Sea Car Show, where you’ll find a spectacular display of Mustangs. Both car shows will be at Harbor View Park and will feature food, vendors, live music, and more.

Upcoming Boat Parades

We’re gearing up for our two annual boat parades that will light up our harbor and bring plenty of fun landside. Mark your calendars for Saturday, October 26^th for the Parade of Frights, our Halloween-themed boat parade, which promises to be entertaining. As the holiday season approaches, get ready for the Parade of Lights on Saturday, December 14^th, with this year’s theme, “Sleigh Bells and Spurs: A Rockin’ Rodeo Boat Parade.” Expect a delightful blend of holiday cheer and Western flair as boaters transform their vessels into festive floats.

Harbor Infrastructure Project Updates

The Harbor Department has been busy identifying key areas in the Channel Islands Harbor that need immediate attention and updating.

Sidewalk Repairs

The sidewalk connecting Silverstrand Beach and Kiddie Beach on the south end of the Harbor is an important pathway for many of our visitors and residents. It is a vital link between two highly frequented spots, and we understand how essential it is for ensuring a safe and pleasant experience for everyone who walks between these areas.

We have identified several areas of concern with this sidewalk that need attention. I’m pleased to share with you that in September, we will be replacing the portion of the sidewalk that slopes up towards Silverstrand near Kiddie Beach. Addressing this issue is a top priority for us, and we are committed to making the necessary repairs to enhance the safety, accessibility, and overall quality of this important connection. During this time, we appreciate your patience and understanding as we work to improve this critical pathway.

Boat Launch Ramp Repairs

With the number of boaters we have accessing our public launch ramp, there’s a good amount of wear and tear, particularly on asphalt areas. We’ve hired a contractor to replace sections of the asphalt with more durable concrete. This project should be completed by mid-September. This improvement is crucial for ensuring a smoother and safer launch experience while enhancing the longevity of the launch ramp area.

Parking Lot Upgrades

In addition to the sidewalk repairs, we are also excited to announce that we are working with engineers to replace and upgrade the parking lots on the west side of the harbor. The area we are focused on, situated between Marine Emporium Landing and the Channel Islands Yacht Club, is a key location for harbor visitors. The planned improvements will provide better parking facilities, enhanced safety features, and a more enjoyable experience for all who visit this part of the harbor. We plan to replace these parking lots in 2025.

Thank you for your continued support of our many events and patience as we work on critical infrastructure enhancements.

Michael Tripp, Director
Ventura County Harbor Department

Editor’s Note: this message was published on Aug. 29, 2024.